Joining an already dynamic SXSW Film & TV Conference lineup is a foundational pioneer of modern cinema.
The creator of Jaws, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, Jurassic Park, Schindler’s List, and countless other cultural pieces, Steven Spielberg is set to take the SXSW 2026 stage for a Keynote* conversation. This will be a live episode of The Big Picture podcast with host Sean Fennessey. Together, they’ll unpack Spielberg’s extraordinary body of work, the evolving future of movies, and his new original thriller, Disclosure Day.
Imagine being in the same room as the filmmaker who redefined what blockbuster storytelling could be. This Keynote embodies what SXSW does best: bring visionary creators into a space where curiosity leads and culture follows.
Where will the conversation go? We’re not entirely sure, but that’s the point—the only way to find out is by being in the room.
February 19, 2026 | Austin, Texas – South by Southwest® (SXSW®) today announced that Steven Spielberg will appear as a Keynote speaker at the 2026 Conferences on Friday, March 13. In a live episode of The Big Picture, Spielberg will join host Sean Fennessey for a wide-ranging conversation about his extraordinary body of work, the future of movies and moviegoing, and his new original event thriller, Disclosure Day, arriving in theaters this June from Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment. SXSW 2026 runs March 12–18 in Austin and marks the festival’s 40th year.
“Childhood dreams do come true!” said Claudette Godfrey, VP Film & TV. “Steven Spielberg is a true pioneer and legend whose seminal work has inspired generations of filmmakers and audiences alike. He’s given us some of cinema’s most formative, unforgettable, and magical experiences, always pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on screen. He embodies the spirit of cinematic innovation and bold storytelling that defines SXSW, and bringing him to Austin for this special Keynote is going to be an extraordinary moment for our community. Making dreams come true is exactly why we do what we do. We’ll all be phoning home about this one!”
Few filmmakers have shaped and defined modern cinema as indelibly as Spielberg. From Jaws, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial and Jurassic Park to Close Encounters of the Third Kind and Raiders of the Lost Ark and from Schindler’s List to Saving Private Ryan, his work has defined the blockbuster era while also setting the standard for emotional storytelling and technical innovation. A three-time Academy Award® winner and the founder of Amblin Entertainment and DreamWorks, Spielberg remains one of the most influential creative forces in film history.
Spielberg joins an already dynamic Film & TV Conference lineup that includes featured conversations with Vince Gilligan and Rhea Seehorn on the legacy of Breaking Bad and the future of television storytelling; Larry David and Jeff Schaffer previewing their upcoming HBO historical comedy series; Bill Lawrence, Matt Tarses, Steve Carell, and Danielle Deadwyler discussing their new HBO Original ROOSTER; and Jamie Lee Curtis reflecting on reinvention, creativity, and career longevity. Together, these sessions underscore SXSW’s commitment to spotlighting the visionary creators shaping film and television today.
About SXSW
SXSW dedicates itself to helping creative people achieve their goals. Founded in 1987 in Austin, Texas, SXSW is known worldwide for conferences and festivals that celebrate the convergence of technology, film and television, music, education, comedy and culture. The annual event serves global professionals through sessions, showcases, screenings, exhibitions, and networking that consistently generates unexpected discoveries when diverse communities come together. SXSW 2026 runs March 12-18 in downtown Austin, preceded by SXSW EDU March 9-12. Learn more at sxsw.com.
SXSW continues to connect creative communities around the world through its flagship event in Austin and SXSW London, which launched in 2025—reflecting SXSW’s commitment to fostering meaningful exchange across culture, technology, and creativity.
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